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Chapter Text

The cars drove fast and tore up the streets.
"The robber's cars is heading towards a side alley," Chief Beifong's strong voice was heard, "I'm after him," shouted Detective Mako into his walkie-talkie.

The robbers' stomobile went into an alley where the police stopped it.
"Get out of the vehicle and raise your hands above your head," said the chief into the megaphone, "Surrender and we won't hurt you."
There were a few seconds of silence before the robbers started to get out of the car where they were handcuffed by Detective Mako, Officers Seikan and Siu along with Lieutenant Song and several other officers, and led into arrest vehicles that took them to the Police station.
Excellent work, everyone," called the chief,"returning to the station""
At the chief's instructions Mako started to go back towards his motorcycle to drive back to the station when a strong hand was placed on his shoulder. He turned around and saw Chief Beifong looking at him with a tired face but a gentle smile on her lips, "Go home Mako" said Lin "You need to rest after all the hard work you've done for the past three nights to track down these criminals, and succeed in stopping the robbery they tried to commit today.''
''I'll do it Chief, thank you'' Mako thanked her and gave her a small kiss on her cheek. Lin's hand came up from Mako's shoulder and cupped his cheek, he leaned into the touch and Lin allowed herself to rub her thumb over his cheek. She felt her chest explode with pure love for this boy she had legally adopted about three months ago and immense pride at what an amazing police officer he had become.
Many of the officers had already returned to the station so she allowed herself to keep her hand like that for a few more moments before dropping it.
"Go home, eat something and then go straight to sleep okay? I don't want to see you collapse from fatigue'' Lin told him in a soft voice full of motherly concern. Mako laughed lightly, "Okay, okay, I promise i'll rest okay?".
"So what are you still doing here?" Lin said and began to push him towards his motorcycle "Go home, I don't want to see you until tomorrow at your shift and not a minute before, understood?".
"Okay, okay," Mako laughed again and got on the motorcycle.
"see you tomorrow mom". her heart will always beat faster when she hears that word addressed to her "goodbye son" she whispered after his receding figure.

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On her way to her apartment, Lin passed by her favorite tea shop when she heard a muffled scream coming from a dark alley adjacent to the shop.

Lin entered the alley, her hands clenched into fists in front of her ready for a possible attack. Inside the alley were three men who grabbed a woman and pinned her to the back wall of the alley. One man in front of the woman while the other two men stood on either side of the woman and kept her from running away while the first man could do as he pleased with her. The woman's wrists and ankles were pinned to the wall with earthen spoons so that she could not move.

Lin moved silently and quickly deeper into the alley and closer to the people who attacked the woman. The closer she got, the more Lin saw that the goal of the three men was not only to steal that woman's money, but more than that.
The man's hands were on the woman's waist and he started to lift the hem of her dress towards me up. The woman tried to scream but couldn't because a piece of thick cloth was tied over her mouth.
She tried to push the man with her head but he just laughed mockingly and slammed her head into the wall behind her. When the woman raised her head, her eyes full of tears.
Lin suddenly felt the walls of the alley as if they were closing in on her and she suddenly forgot how to breathe. She would recognize those eyes everywhere. These were beautiful sapphire blue eyes,

These were Kya's eyes

Chapter Text

Lin felt the ground rock beneath her feet.

how dare they?

How dare they touch her like that?

"Leave her alone" Lin shouted.

The three men turned around in surprise, they didn't expect a policewoman in the same alley and not just any policewoman but the police chief of the whole city.

"Get her out of here" said the man standing in front of Kya to the two men standing at his sides.
The two men began to advance towards Lin and take up battle stances towards her.
The first man started fireballs and Lin in response raised a wall of earth to protect herself from the fire dome and then smashed it. From the force of the blow, the dome of fire flew towards the side wall of the alley where his head was hit hard and he fell on the floor and did not move anymore.

Lin turned to the other man and didn't even give him a second to come to his senses before she pulled out her armor blades. The other man was a waterbender, he sent ice daggers at her that flew quickly with purpose at their target. But they never hit - Lin used her metal blades as a shield and deflected daggers out of her way. She raised her hands and then with lightning quick movements hit the water dome in his stomach the water dome collapsed on the floor and vomited his soul.

A muffled scream is heard again. Lin turned to see the man standing in front of Kya attaching a dagger to Kya's throat while his hand began to reach under her dress.

Lin felt the power in her skin, in her blood, in her bones. Calling to go outside and bury the person in front of her so deep in the ground that he will regret the day he was born.

"I told you to leave her!" Lin screamed and leapt into the air aiming her foot squarely at his jaw. With a terrible cracking sound Lin's foot hit the man's jaw and he fell to the ground.

Lin jumped on the man and began to beat him hard when suddenly officers Sikan, Sio and Undis entered the alley.

"What the hell is going on here?" Saikan yelled and ran to Lin, Sio and Laondis right behind him.

"Lin stop" Sikan shouted and tried to pull her away from the man she had already seriously injured. Laondis came to his side and helped him pull Lin away from the man, "No! Leave me alone!" Lin shouted and tried to break free from their tight grip on her arms "This man deserved to die after what he did to her" she screamed at them.

"Stop fighting me and listen" Saikan told her harshly "Killing this man will not help you in anything, we will take care of him but you have to go take care of Kya".

Lin stopped trying to break free from Sikaun's tight grip on her and go back and kill the man who hurt Kya and froze in place.She turned and saw Kya standing frozen with Sio standing next to her with her dress torn and her eyes wide openr. Lin quickly walked towards Kya and soon she stood in front of he.
''Are you ok?'' asked Lin with soft voice. Kya nodded,looking at her feet, refusing to meet Lin's eyes

"Come on" Lin said in a soft whisper and took Kya's hand in hers and led her towards the exit from the alley where her three coworkers were standing; Each of them grabbed a different man from the three attackers.

The man who put a dagger to Kya's throat tried to break free from Sikan's grip and try to attack Kya again but Lin grabbed him by his neck and threw him as the arrest truck arrived where the two attackers who had been tasked by Sio and Laondis were already there.
Lin slammed the truck doors shut. She turned to her friends "Thank you" she said quietly and they nodded towards her and Sio walked towards her and whispered in her ear "We will take care of them and you do what you have to do" Lin nodded towards her.

She then turned towards Kya and took Kya's hand in hers again and started walking towards her house again.

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When they got to Lin's apartment, Lin led Kya into her bedroom and sat Kya next to her on the bed.Lin immediately turned around looking for something for Kya to wear. Finally, after a long search, Lin found shorts and a black tank top, which she handed to Kya. Kya took the clothes from Lin, whispering a quiet thank you before going into the bathroom to change. After Kya finished Lin went into the bathroom that was next to her bedroom and filled a bowl with water.
While gathering some washcloths and ointments she glanced at the woman sitting on her bed.
Kya was still sitting frozen and looking at her feet. It could have seemed very normal because kya did it all the time, but Lin knew better.
When Kya sits and looks down at her feet it usually means she is thinking about something but her feet are moving back and forth all the time. And when she gets tired she will lie back on the bed and stare at the ceiling.
But Kya who was sitting on the bed in her room did not move an inch.

Lin finished gathering everything she needed and went back into the bedroom.
She knelt down in front of Kya before taking a washcloth and dipping it in water.
When Lin came to place the wet washcloth on Kya's injured hands, Kya jumped back and pulled her hands away staring at Lin.

Now it was Lin's turn to freeze in place.
"Can I?"

Kya nodded silently, returning to staring at her feet.
Lin cleaned Kya's hands with a dab of soap and then applied some lotion to her hands before returning everything to the bathroom.

When she returned to the room Lin sat down next to Kya. Close enough so that Kya could get closer if she wanted to, but far enough away in case Kya didn't want anyone to get close to her right now.

"How are you feeling?" Lin asked.

There was a few seconds of silence before Kya took a sharp breath.

"I'll tell you how I feel," Kya said. "I feel like a fool for going into that alley.
" "I feel stupid for not getting out in time and letting them attack me'', Kya's voice rose.
"And I feel so pathetic," Kya was screaming now, tears of rage welling up in her eyes but she still refused to look at Lin, "For not being able to do anything while they were doing all this to me!"
Kya was sobbing now, burying her face in her hands. Lin put her hand on Kya's shoulder and pulled her closer, wrapping her arms around her as Kya sobbed into her shoulder. Lin didn't know how she had gotten to this point. She had never been one to touch people and hug people, it was really unusual for her, but with Kya it was different. She had always admired Kya and loved her company - because who wouldn't?
It's Kya.. she is sweet, kind, funny. And most importantly, without her, Lin feels like the world could fall apart at any moment.
She remembers how she felt the first time Kya left.
She went to explore the world and Lin felt like she was left alone.
When Kya returned about three months later, Lin was already in a relationship with Tenzin and Kya said she was happy for them but it still didn't feel right.

Three years ago after the war with the Red Lotus, Lin remembers how scared she was when she saw Kya so hurt.
She thought she had lost her and she had never been this scared.

But now Lin understood.
Why she had been so sad when Kya left.
Why she had been so scared of losing Kya.

She had never loved Tenzin - not really.
It was Kya.

It had always been her.

Lin leaned back on the mattress, her arms still wrapped protectively around Kya whispering words of comfort as she began to run her fingers through Kya's hair and her hand drew circles on Kya's back until the cries turned to sobs and they slowly stopped.
Kya stood up and Lin sat down next to her, still a little far away but closer than she had been.
"Thank you," Kya whispered, looking up, her eyes finally meeting Lin's.

As soon as Jade's eyes met Sapphire's, Lin lost her ability to speak.
"Kya, I.." "Lin,I don’t want to frighten you…or make you feel obligated in any way. You don’t have to say or do anything and…well, if it makes you uncomfortable, we don’t ever have to do it again.” She moved closer to Lin, closing the small distance that remained between them. “But I think I might die if I don’t do this at least one time.” She leaned forward and pressed her lips against Lin's. It took Lin a moment to realize what was happening, but then her hand was on Kya's waist, tightening her dress. Kya's lips were gentle and soft, sweet and a little salty from the tears.Perfect, she thought. Too soon, Kya pulled away, placing their foreheads together, refusing to open her eyes.Lin couldn't speak but she could move, so she hugged Kya, pulling her even closer until Kya was sitting in her lap. Kya laughed and sobbed at the same time, wrapping her arms around Lin's neck. Hearing Kya Lin's laughter, she felt her chest explode with emotion for her. ''if that's A dream, I never want to wake up'' Kya said, But before she could finish the sentence, she yawned. Lin giggled, "Let's put you to sleep." ''hmmm" Kya said as Lin tucked her under the covers. But just as Lin moved away, Kya grabbed her hand, "stay with me?" Lin got under the covers next to Kya,pulling her into her arms. "Always," she whispered. That was the last thing Kya heard before sleep plunged her into a world full of dreams about the girl with the green eyes.

Chapter Text

The shrill cry of the alarm clock cut through the silence like a blade. 6:00

Lin's eyes opened instantly, her body already alert despite the few hours of restless sleep. The weight of Kya’s warmth in her arms was the only thing keeping her from moving. For a moment, she let herself lie still. Kya’s head rested against her chest, her breath warm and steady against Lin’s collarbone. Her dark hair was tangled between them, and Lin could feel the faint rise and fall of her ribs.

She didn’t want to move. Spirits, she wanted nothing more than to stay in this bed, hold Kya a little tighter, and forget the world outside.

But she had duties. She was the Chief.

Lin closed her eyes and breathed in the scent of Kya’s hair – a mix of lavender and rain. She opened them again with a quiet sigh. Her hand stayed resting on Kya’s back, as if anchoring herself to the moment.
Minutes passed.

Eventually, Kya stirred. Her eyelashes fluttered, and her brows drew together faintly as she registered where she was, who she was with. Slowly, her eyes opened fully.
She didn’t speak, not right away. Her gaze shifted to the clock on the wall. Lin felt Kya’s body tighten just slightly against her.

“You need to go soon,” Kya murmured, her voice rough from sleep.
Lin didn’t answer.
Kya gently pulled away from Lin’s arms and sat up, wrapping her arms around her knees. Lin followed immediately, sitting beside her.

“I know you have to,” Kya said, softer now. “I just…” Her shoulders lifted slightly, then dropped again, her voice trailing off.
Lin reached out. Gently, she placed her fingers beneath Kya’s chin, tilting her face up until sapphire-blue eyes met emerald green.
“I’ll be back soon,” Lin said softly.

Kya’s eyes shimmered. She bit her lip, trying to keep the tears from falling. After a second, she looked away and nodded, silent.
Lin didn’t say anything else. She simply pulled Kya back into her arms and held her tightly, placing a kiss on the top of Kya's head, her arms still wrapped tightly around her. But even as she held her, she felt the familiar tug of duty in her chest.
Reluctantly, she pulled away just enough to slide out from under the covers. Kya remained seated on the bed, watching her, silent. Lin crossed the room, her steps slow, as though her body rebelled against the idea of leaving. She picked up her towel from the back of the door and disappeared into the bathroom.

The water was hot and sharp against her skin, but Lin welcomed it. It grounded her. For a few moments, she stood still, letting the steam rise around her, letting it clear her mind. But even in the rush of the water, she could still feel the warmth of Kya’s body against hers, the sound of her voice, the look in those deep sapphire eyes.

Duty. First.
Always first.

She stepped out and dried off quickly. The moment her feet touched the bedroom floor again, she stretched out her fingers slightly. With a quiet clink and shiver of energy, the metal plates of her uniform slid from their place on the armor stand. They hovered in the air for just a second before shooting toward her body with practiced precision, wrapping her in steel and discipline.

Each piece clicked into place – the chestplate, the shoulder guards, the greaves – until Lin Beifong, Chief of Police, stood in the middle of her bedroom once more.
But her eyes drifted toward the bed, where Kya was sitting, her sapphire eyes fixed on her hands as they fidgeted with the edge of the blanket. She refused to lift her gaze, as if afraid that meeting Lin’s eyes would make something inside her shatter. The silence stretched between them, filled only by the distant hum of the waking city.

Lin stood near the foot of the bed, fully dressed in her metal uniform, her green eyes fixed on Kya. For a moment, she didn’t speak. She didn’t move. Then, slowly, she stepped closer and sat beside her.
Kya’s voice was barely more than a whisper. “You have to leave soon.”
Lin didn’t respond at first. She reached out, gently placing her fingers beneath Kya’s chin and tilting her head up so their eyes could meet.

“I’ll be back before you know it,” she said softly.
Kya’s eyes welled with tears. She bit her lip, looked away, and gave a small, almost imperceptible nod.
Lin couldn’t bear the distance between them. She pulled Kya into her arms again, her hold firm but tender, and pressed a kiss to
the top of her head.
“See you soon, Kya,” Lin whispered, and with a surge of courage she hadn’t known she possessed, she leaned in and placed a gentle, hesitant kiss on Kya’s lips.
Kya melted into the kiss.

It was soft, brief, but it lingered like the promise it carried. When Lin finally pulled away, her gaze lingered on Kya’s face for a moment longer, memorizing every detail.

Then, without another word, she stood up and crossed the room, casting one last glance over her shoulder before stepping out of the bedroom into the small hallway. She walked through the quiet living room and reached the front door, pausing for a heartbeat before opening it and slipping outside.

The morning air was cool as she descended the short stairwell of her modest apartment building. The city was just beginning to stir. Lin crossed the small paved yard to where her vehicle sat parked in her private space. She climbed in, started the engine, and drove off into the waking streets of Republic City – without looking back, though her heart was still somewhere behind, wrapped in sapphire eyes and a quiet, trembling kiss.
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As Chief Beifong stepped into the towering entrance hall of the station, the usual morning rush greeted her – officers crossing paths with purpose, boots clacking against polished stone, voices exchanging reports in clipped tones.
“Morning, Chief,” a few called as they passed, saluting briskly.
Lin gave curt nods in return, her expression firm and unreadable. She didn’t slow her pace as she crossed the vast atrium and made her way to the grand stairway at the far end, bypassing the elevators out of habit. She preferred the stairs. Always had.

She climbed swiftly to the top floor, where only the most senior offices were located. At the landing, an open area held a few neatly arranged desks – reserved for high-ranking detectives. The floor-to-ceiling windows let in clean morning light.

Mako sat at one of the desks, hunched over a report. When he sensed her presence, he glanced up. A quiet smile crossed his face, brief but genuine.
Lin met his eyes. Her face remained neutral, but there was a fleeting softness in her sharp green gaze – gone almost as soon as it appeared. She gave him the faintest of nods and kept walking.
No one else noticed the exchange. No one else knew the truth – that she’d made him her legal son barely three months ago. Not even his brother.

Lin reached her office door at the end of the row and entered with a light metallic touch. The door swung shut behind her. The space was orderly, efficient, no-nonsense – like its occupant.
A thick stack of reports sat squarely at the center of her desk. Follow-ups, mostly – details to finalize after yesterday’s high-profile robbery case had been successfully closed. She sank into her chair, rolled her shoulders, and got to work.

The door creaked open a few minutes later, after a soft knock.
“Come in,” Lin called, not looking up.

Sio stepped inside, composed and sharp in her dark uniform, her expression unreadable to most – though Lin had long since learned to catch the small things.
She closed the door gently behind her and crossed the room. “Hey,” she said, voice quiet but clear.

Lin lifted her eyes from the file. “Something wrong?”
“No,” Sio said, settling into the chair across from her. “I just wanted to check in. After last night.”
Lin’s jaw tightened. “I’m fine.”
Sio gave her a look, then asked, “And Kya?”
Lin didn’t answer right away. She looked past Sio to the window. “Still at my place.”
“She okay?”
“She didn’t say much,” Lin admitted. “But… she didn’t have to.”
Sio nodded thoughtfully. “If she wants to stay, she’s welcome?”
“She is,” Lin replied without hesitation. Then, softer, “She always is.”
Sio stood after a moment, brushing imaginary dust from her sleeve. “If you need anything, I’m just down the hall.”
“I know,” Lin said.
The door clicked shut behind her.

Lin sat still for a few seconds longer before returning to the first report – though her thoughts, still, were far from ink and paper.

Chapter Text

The bed felt too big. The sheets still held the faint warmth of the night before, but they had cooled now, and the space beside her was empty. The echo of Lin's departure lingered in the air, heavier than the silence that followed.

Kya sat upright slowly, the blanket wrapped around her shoulders like armor she hadn't chosen. Her fingers brushed against her lips-tentative, reverent-where Lin had kissed her goodbye. Not a word, not a look back. Just that one gesture, like the ghost of something fragile, and then the click of the door.

She didn’t cry. Not really. But her eyes stung, and her chest ached in that deep, quiet way.
For a moment she lay back down, curling into the sheets that still smelled faintly of sharp wind and something that was uniquely Lin. Her gaze drifted toward the ceiling as the memories of the last day played back in scattered fragments: the alley, the shadows, the sharpness of fear, the gentleness of hands after.

Kya was strong. She had always been strong. But even strength cracked.
Eventually, she rose. The movement was sluggish but deliberate. She made her way to the bathroom, her bare feet brushing the cold floor. She turned the shower on, the sound of water crashing against tile grounding her, then stepped under the stream.

She closed her eyes. The steam swirled around her.

And then, slowly, she called to the water.

It came to her gently, as it always had-dancing at her fingertips, shimmering around her wrists. She guided it without words, letting it flow to the bruised places, the tightness in her ribs, the weariness beneath her skin. Not just physical hurt. Deeper things. Lingering things.

It didn’t erase the ache. But it reminded her of who she was.
By the time she stepped out and dried off, her breath had steadied.
She wrapped herself in a towel and wandered into the kitchen. Her stomach gave a small, reluctant protest, so she made tea. While it steeped, she found a green apple in the bowl by the window and bit into it-crisp, tart, grounding. Her eyes flicked toward the door. Still locked. Still safe.

Then, quietly, she padded to the small chest by the front door.
She remembered this apartment. Lin had bought it when she was eighteen-too young and far too independent. Kya had been here back then. She remembered the way Lin used to keep her spare keys hidden in the side drawer of the entryway cabinet. She opened it. The key was still there.

She held it for a long second. Then she pocketed it.
With the tea finished and the apple core discarded, she left.
The streets were still familiar. One of the benefits of Lin's place-its proximity. The hospital wasn’t far, and her feet carried her there without thought.

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Inside the hospital, the sterile light and familiar bustle grounded her. No one questioned her presence. The staff knew her. Respected her. She slipped into the back corridors and made her way to the employee lockers, where her personal bag waited behind her nameplate:
Water Tribe Healing Unit - Specialist K.

She changed quickly into fresh clothes-comfortable, neutral, hers. Her tunic, blue and light blue, settled over her like memory and resolve. She tied her long silver hair back with practiced ease.

Only when she felt like herself again did she allow her breath to settle.
No one had questioned her presence. She hadn’t been scheduled for a shift, but she belonged there. The staff knew her, nodded to her with the kind of quiet respect that comes from years of trust. And when the call had gone out about a pile-up at the edge of the city-broken limbs, shattered ribs, blood in places it shouldn't be-Kya had simply tied back her long silver hair, squared her shoulders, and stepped into the OR.

She stayed until the last suture was tied.

The weight of the operating room still lingered on her shoulders as Kya stepped back into the sunlight. Her blue-and-light-blue tunic moved softly with her steps, now faintly streaked with the scent of antiseptic and urgency. She hadn’t meant to stay at the hospital so long, but the emergency had left no room for hesitation-lives were at stake.

She walked quietly through the city’s midday haze toward the familiar little restaurant. It sat tucked behind a crooked alley, a small place with a hot kitchen and bold spices. Lín didn’t cook-not because she couldn’t, but because she was always too busy. This place had become a quiet constant in her life. They knew her order well: food spiced hot enough to wake the dead, balanced with rice and greens.

Kya placed the order with quiet efficiency and waited by the counter. When the food was ready, she took the warm paper bag gently in her hands and nodded her thanks to the man behind the counter. Then, without another word, she turned and began the walk toward the police station.

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The bustling noise of the precinct greeted her the moment she stepped inside-clacking boots, ringing phones, the hum of busy conversations. Kya paused just beyond the threshold, the paper bag held in both hands. She’d been here before, but only briefly. Somehow, it felt larger now-colder. Like she didn’t quite belong.
But then a familiar voice cut through the noise.

“Kya?”

She turned to see Sio approaching from between the clustered desks, expression warm and a little surprised. Kya smiled, faintly.
“Hi. I… brought something for Lin. I didn’t want to disturb her.”

Sio smiled gently as she looked at the bag in Kya's hands.
"You don't need to hesitate so much," she said. "Lin will be happy to see you."

Kya blushed slightly, holding the bag with both hands as if protecting it.
"She just seemed really busy yesterday... I didn't want to interrupt."

Sio dismissed her words with a gentle motion.
"You're doing the opposite. You know where her office is."

Kya nodded quietly, stepping toward the large staircase to the upper floor of the station. When she reached the top, her eyes scanned the open, wide space where officers sat around crowded tables. Even though some time had passed since her last visit, the place had barely changed. Conversations, radio noises, the constant tension of a city bracing to react to the world.

At the far end of the room – behind a gray metal door with a slightly worn, sophisticated sign - simply stated:
Police Chief's Office - it was Lin's office.
Kya approached quietly, hesitating. For a moment, she stopped in front of the door.
What am I doing here? Maybe this was a silly idea.

The door opened.

Lin stood in the doorway, surprise flickering in her eyes as they moved from the bag in Kya’s hands to her face.
“Kya?”

Kya hesitated for a moment, her fingers tightening around the paper bag. "I thought... maybe you'd want something to eat." Her voice was soft, unsure. She took a step back, almost as if she were preparing to leave.

But Lin reached out, her hand gently pulling Kya inside. The contact was brief, almost accidental, but it sent a strange warmth running through Kya. Without saying another word, Lin stepped back, letting Kya enter. As Kya passed through the doorway, Lin closed it softly behind them, the dull clang of the metal door echoing slightly in the quiet office.

Kya moved toward the couch and sat down, immediately pulling out the takeout containers with a calm, almost practiced movement. The warm, fragrant scent of food began to fill the small space.

Lin stood for a moment by her desk, her eyes lingering on Kya’s movements. She couldn’t help but feel the strange comfort in the way Kya was handling everything-like she belonged there, like this was just part of their routine.
Kya looked up, catching Lin’s gaze. Then, with a small nod of her head, she silently invited her to sit beside her.

Lin moved to the couch, still unsure but following the unspoken invitation. She took the box Kya handed her and the chopsticks, her curiosity piqued.
“Here. Extra spicy pad thai with chicken in even spicier curry,” Kya said with a playful tone, a hint of mischief in her eyes.
Lin raised an eyebrow, glancing at the food, then back at Kya. “How did you remember?”

Kya’s cheeks pinkened just slightly, but she shrugged. “I just remembered,” she mumbled, looking away for a moment. There was a slight awkwardness in the air, a vulnerability that Kya wasn’t used to showing.

Before Lin could respond, Kya clapped her hands lightly. “Come on, eat before it gets cold. I won’t accept complaints.”
Lin chuckled quietly, the softest hint of a smile playing on her lips as she began eating, and Kya watched her, satisfied for a moment with the silence.
After a while, Kya shifted, her tone casual but the question genuine. “So… how was your day?”

Lin exhaled quietly, leaning back on the couch with her food in hand. “I’ve been stuck in my office all morning,” she muttered. “Reports, forms, more reports… It’s like paperwork breeds when no one’s watching.”
Kya smiled faintly, eyes still on her own food. “You sound thrilled.”
Lin gave a dry huff of a laugh. “Ecstatic.”

There was a moment of silence, filled only by the soft rustle of takeout containers and the clink of chopsticks. Then Lin glanced sideways at her.
“And you?” she asked. “How was your day?”

Kya didn’t answer right away. She stared at the box in her hands, the food suddenly less interesting. “I had a patient die.”
The words landed with a quiet weight.

Lin’s face softened. She reached out, resting a hand gently on Kya’s shoulder. “I’m sorry.”
Kya didn’t flinch. Instead, she leaned into the touch just slightly and lifted her own hand, placing it over Lin’s. Her thumb brushed softly across Lin’s skin-absent-minded at first, then slower, more deliberate.
“I did everything I could,” Kya said quietly. “But sometimes… it’s just not enough.”

Lin didn’t speak, but her hand stayed right where it was, warm and grounding beneath Kya’s touch. For a long moment, they sat in silence-connected by something quieter than words.

Then Kya looked up at her, blue eyes bright but tired. “Thanks for letting me be here.”
“You don’t need permission to be here,” Lin answered, her voice just above a whisper.

Kya was quiet for a moment, then said softly, “I missed you.”
Lin blinked, caught off guard. A faint flush bloomed along her cheeks, looking a bit away. “I… missed you too,” she admitted, though her gaze stayed fixed ahead, on the empty wall across from them.

Kya smiled to herself, warm and quiet. Without thinking too much about it, she leaned closer-intending to press a gentle kiss to Lin’s cheek.
But Lin turned toward her at that exact moment.
Instead, Kya’s lips brushed softly against hers.

Time stopped.

Her eyes widened-she was about to pull back in apology, but Lin didn’t let her.
The Chief leaned into the kiss instead, closing the distance.
Kya’s hand found Lin’s cheek, her thumb brushing gently along the line of her jaw as Lin’s hands slipped to her waist, drawing her in without hesitation. Their breaths mingled. The kiss deepened-tender, real, like something long withheld finally being allowed to exist.

A knock shattered the moment.

Lin’s forehead dropped gently against Kya’s as she closed her eyes, exhaling in quiet frustration. “I swear I’m going to murder whoever that is.”
From the other side of the door, Song’s voice called out, muffled but clear. “Chief, there’s a situation downstairs that needs your attention.”

Lin didn’t move right away. She only answered, low and clipped: “I’ll be right there.”
Kya chuckled softly against her, breath warm. “You have admirers everywhere, huh?”
Lin opened her eyes, and despite everything, a small laugh escaped her. “Just what I needed.”
They stayed like that for a second longer-foreheads pressed together, breaths synced-before reality pulled gently at the edges.

They stood in quiet coordination, clearing away the food containers and tossing them neatly into the bin. Neither of them spoke as they moved toward the door, steps soft on the floor.
Just before they reached it, Kya glanced sideways. “Is it alright if I wait for you at your place after your shift?” she asked lightly, a teasing glint in her eye. “I might even make dinner.”

Lin’s lips tugged into a reluctant smile, her eyes catching Kya’s with a spark of amusement. “I’ll be there,” she said simply.
Kya smiled, small and warm. “See you, then.”

She turned to leave, but Lin caught her hand-gently, but firmly-and pulled her back into a kiss, close and certain. It was brief, but grounding. When they broke apart, Kya stared at her, breathless and a little dazed.
Lin smiled quietly. Physical affection wasn’t something she gave freely-but this, this she wanted. Needed.
“I’ll see you tonight,” she whispered, lips brushing against Kya’s ear.

Kya smiled and stumbled slightly as she stepped out of the office, heart racing, lips tingling, drunk from the kiss and the promise it carried.

Chapter Text

The kitchen was quiet, filled only with the soft rhythm of Kya’s movements. Evening had long since wrapped the city in deep indigo, and she stood barefoot on the cool tile, sleeves rolled up, focused.

She had planned to cook for Lin. That part had never been in question. But she had hesitated-unsure, weighing a dozen memories against the silence in her chest-until that evening from years ago returned to her with sudden clarity, unshakable and warm.

Of course, Lin had absolutely nothing in her fridge. That hadn’t surprised Kya in the least. It just meant she’d had to stop by the market first-gathering every last ingredient she’d need, already knowing exactly what she would make.

Now, her hands moved with quiet purpose.
She chopped the green onion swiftly, her motions precise, before folding it into the seasoned meat mixture. Her dumplings-Lin’s second favorite, perhaps.

Then, without pause, she turned to the potatoes. Her knife slid through them smoothly, cutting them down into perfect pieces for the vegetable patties-her mother's recipe, passed down in exact gestures and flavors. Katara’s hands in hers, echoing.
Lin’s favorite. Always had been.

Kya exhaled slowly. She still hadn’t decided what she’d say when Lin walked through the door. But maybe, just maybe, dinner would speak first.

dust in the air-settling in the corners of Lin’s apartment, in the stretched spaces between furniture, in her own breath.

With a flick, she turned on the old radio perched by the window, letting static give way to a mellow tune-soft jazz, nothing too bold. Just enough to chase away the hush.

She stirred the pan gently, hips beginning to sway in time with the rhythm. It wasn’t dancing, not really-just movement, loose and quiet, shoulders loosening as she stirred, flipped, stirred again. The smell of garlic and toasted sesame was rising sweetly through the space.

She didn’t hear the door open.

Didn’t notice the quiet click of shoes being removed, nor the faint exhale of someone relieved to be home.

And so she jumped slightly when Lin’s voice, low and dry but unmistakably amused, drifted from the hallway:

“Are you dancing in my kitchen?”

Kya startled, then let out a small gasp and swatted Lin’s arm with mock indignation.

“You scared me!” she accused, though the smile tugging at her lips betrayed her.

Lin chuckled, the sound warm and rare. “You’re the one dancing in someone else’s kitchen.”

Kya rolled her eyes but grabbed Lin’s hand without hesitation, tugging her gently toward the stove. “Come here.”

She picked up one of the golden vegetable patties-still hot from the pan-and broke off a small piece. Without a word, she lifted it to Lin’s lips, her gaze steady and expectant.

Lin leaned in, letting her teeth catch the edge of the offering. Her lips brushed softly against Kya’s fingertips as she took the bite.

And then-an involuntary sound, a low groan of pure delight escaped her throat.

Kya’s breath caught slightly.

“Oh my god,” Lin murmured, mouth full, eyes fluttering shut for a moment. “It’s exactly like I remember.”

Kya chuckled softly and turned back to the stove, clearly pleased. “Told you. It’s good, right?”

“Mmhmm,” Lin hummed, stepping closer-close enough that only a few centimeters remained between them.

And then, without turning around, she smacked Lin’s hand away just as it reached toward the plate. “No stealing,” she scolded playfully. “Go shower. I want you clean before you touch anything else.”

Lin snorted and laughed, but obeyed, letting herself be lightly shoved toward the bedroom. As she disappeared through the doorway, the sound of her amusement still lingered in the kitchen.

When the door clicked shut behind her, both women leaned against it from opposite sides-neither knowing the other was doing the same.

It was something neither of them could quite explain.

But it felt like home.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Lin stepped out of the shower wrapped in warm steam, her hair still damp, drops trailing slowly down her back. She crossed the bedroom quietly, opened a drawer, and pulled out her pajamas-a black tank top and short green shorts. She dressed slowly, as if each movement carried its own weight, then paused a moment before the mirror, took a deep breath, and walked out to the kitchen.

Kya was there, in the middle of setting the table. When she noticed Lin, she smiled softly and lifted her gaze.

"Wash your hands before you touch anything," she said gently. "I don’t want my meatballs tasting like body soap."

Lin gave a small, teasing smile and rolled her eyes. “Yes, ma’am, chef.”

She walked over to the sink, washed her hands carefully, and dried them delicately with the kitchen towel.

And then it happened-a moment of imbalance just as she finished drying her hands and stood right beside Kya.
Kya, who had just turned too quickly, slipped slightly on the cool tile.

Lin caught her instantly-one hand on her waist, the other stopping her fall.
Their eyes met, a breath held for a second, and then Kya smiled. A wide, open, honest smile,
and she placed a soft kiss on Lin’s cheek, sweet and delicate as a secret.

Lin blushed a deep red, almost bashful. She quickly pulled her hand away, but couldn’t hide the smile that spread across her lips.
Kya didn’t say a word, simply straightened herself as if nothing had happened, then took the plates and placed them on the table.

“Come on,” she said lightly. “Before it gets cold.”

They sat across from each other, the table between them small, almost intimate.

“So, what happened at the station after I left? Why did Song call you downstairs?”

Lin took a deep breath, a smile tugging at the corner of her mouth.
“You won’t believe it. Some family members got into a fight… over a missing sandwich.”

Kya raised an eyebrow, stifling a laugh.
“A sandwich? Seriously?”

Lin nodded, trying to keep a straight face.
“Yeah, it got out of hand fast - they were yelling, shoving, even throwing punches. Saikan had to call me because it turned into a full-blown brawl right there.”

Kya burst out laughing, shaking her head.
“Only at your station, Chief. I swear, you get all the crazy cases.”

Lin grinned, feeling the tension melt away.
“Yeah, sometimes I wonder if I’m running a police station or a circus.”

Kya was still giggling when she reached for her glass of water.
“Seriously though, Lin - a sandwich? That’s what brought down the peace in the city today?”

Lin gave her a mock-glare.
“I’ll have you know it was a very suspicious sandwich.”

Kya snorted. “Suspiciously delicious?”

Lin fought a smile. “Apparently. It was the last one, and someone clearly crossed a line.”

Kya leaned on the table, eyes twinkling.
“Well, thank goodness you were there to protect the public from sandwich-related crime.”

“Someone has to,” Lin said solemnly, then shook her head. “Honestly, I should start charging for family therapy.”

Kya smirked. “Or sandwich insurance.”

They both laughed again, the sound warm and easy between them. Then, after a beat, Lin rested her chin on her hand and said softly,
“I’m working most of the week… morning shifts, mostly. Saikan’s covering for me Thursday though.”

Kya nodded, her voice gentler now.
“I should head back to the Air Temple Island tomorrow. Just so they don’t think I’ve vanished.”

Lin blinked, looking almost startled by the reminder. “Oh… right.”

“It’s not forever,” Kya added quickly. “Just… checking in. I’ll be back soon. Unless you get buried in another sandwich war and forget all about me.”

Lin gave her a look. “Unlikely.”

She hesitated for a beat, then added, her tone quieter but steady,
“You know you’re welcome here. Anytime. To come back. Stay.”

Kya’s expression softened instantly. She reached gently across the small table, her fingers brushing against Lin’s hand before settling over it. Her thumb moved in a slow, tender stroke over the back of Lin’s hand.

“Thank you,” she said, barely above a whisper, her eyes bright, warm, glinting with something unsaid but deeply felt.
And Lin didn’t pull away.

They didn’t exactly eat in silence - that wasn’t Kya’s style.

Between bites, she kept the conversation light and teasing, poking fun at the “Great Sandwich Riot” back at the station and Lin’s stoic expression during the chaos. Lin tried to keep a straight face, but every now and then a smile cracked through - and once or twice, even a laugh escaped her lips.

Kya lit up each time it happened like she’d just won a small victory.

By the time they finished, their plates were left on the table, forgotten. They drifted to the couch, shoulders brushing as they sat. Lin leaned back slowly, letting herself relax, and Kya followed - sinking into the cushions beside her, curling one leg beneath her.

The room softened around them.

The conversation turned quieter now, less playful, more thoughtful - about how strange it was, this closeness, and how it somehow didn’t feel strange at all.

“I never thought…” Kya began, then paused, her voice trailing into the space between them. “That you’d let me in again.”

Lin looked at her, eyes warm. “I didn’t think I would either.”

There was a beat. Then Kya smiled, softer this time, and leaned in - slowly, without words - resting her head against Lin’s shoulder like it was the most natural thing in the world.

Lin didn’t move. She just let her stay there.

The warmth of Kya’s body, the rhythm of her breathing - it all felt so close, so solid and quiet and right.

Minutes passed. Kya’s breathing deepened. Her weight shifted ever so slightly.

Lin glanced down and realized she’d fallen asleep.

Carefully - as carefully as she would lift glass - Lin slipped an arm beneath Kya’s legs, the other behind her back, and rose from the couch with her cradled close. Kya murmured something against her neck but didn’t wake.

Lin carried her into the bedroom, laid her gently on the bed, and pulled the soft blanket over her. She lingered for a second, brushing a few strands of hair from Kya’s face, and pressed a quiet kiss to her forehead.

She straightened, about to turn away but Kya’s hand shot out in her sleep, fingers closing around Lin’s wrist.

And then, without opening her eyes, she tugged her close, curling toward her like the movement was instinct.

Lin froze.

Kya shifted again, murmuring something unintelligible, and pulled her further, until there was no space left until Lin had no choice but to climb into the bed and lie down beside her.

But she didn’t just lie down.
She stayed close.
Their bodies touched, chest to chest, legs tangled.

Lin let out a long, slow breath, her face inches from Kya’s. She watched her sleep - so unguarded, so beautiful.

And then, finally, she closed her eyes too,
drawn not by sleep,
but by the warmth of the woman in her arms,
by the peace that came not from rest,
but from knowing, in that fragile silence,
that she didn’t want to be anywhere else.